Air Fryer Ranch Chicken Drumsticks - Crispy 20 Minute Recipe
Perfectly seasoned chicken drumsticks with crispy skin and tender meat, coated in savory ranch seasoning and air fried to golden perfection. The dry ranch mix creates a flavorful crust while keeping the chicken juicy inside. Ready in just 20 minutes, these drumsticks make an ideal weeknight dinner or game day snack that both kids and adults will love.
Ingredients
- 8 chicken drumstickschicken thighs1:1same cooking method
bone-in thighs work similarly
- 1 packet dry ranch dressing mixItalian seasoning1:1ketolow-sodium
use garlic powder and herbs
- non-stick cooking spray
Instructions
- 1
Preheat air fryer to 400 degrees
- 2
Pat chicken dry with paper towel
- 3
Season both sides with dry ranch dressing
- 4
Place onto air fryer rack
- 5
Spray top of drumsticks with non-stick cooking spray
- 6
Cook 10 minutes
- 7
Flip drumsticks
- 8
Cook 10 more minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165 degrees
Tips
Pat chicken completely dry before seasoning for maximum crispiness
Let seasoned drumsticks rest 5-10 minutes before cooking to help coating adhere
Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket - cook in batches if needed
Good to Know
Refrigerate cooked drumsticks up to 3 days in airtight container
Season drumsticks up to 4 hours ahead and refrigerate
Serve immediately while hot and crispy
Common Mistakes
Don't skip patting dry to avoid soggy skin
Don't overcrowd basket to ensure even cooking
Use meat thermometer to avoid overcooking
Substitutions
FAQ
Can I use frozen drumsticks?
Thaw completely first and pat very dry. Add 2-3 extra minutes cooking time and check internal temperature reaches 165°F.
What if I don't have ranch seasoning?
Mix garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, salt and pepper. Use about 2 tablespoons total seasoning for 8 drumsticks.
How long do leftovers keep?
Store in refrigerator up to 3 days. Reheat in air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes to restore crispiness.